Arsenal were last night facing a potential double suspension blow after Jose Antonio Reyes was charged with violent conduct following his side's FA Cup draw against Sheffield United.

Dennis Bergkamp is already facing a three-match ban after being sent off for a similar offence in the 1-1 draw at Highbury last Saturday.

If Reyes is also found guilty Arsene Wenger's side will be left without two key strikers for next week's FA Cup replay, as well as Premiership games against Southampton and Portsmouth.

While Wenger seems resigned to Bergkamp losing his appeal, he is likely to be frustrated by the FA's decision to charge Reyes for his part in the melee which followed Danny Cullip's foul on Cesc Fabregas.

"We do not want to lose Reyes," Wenger admitted. "Reyes may be a yellow card but I don't see why one case should be linked with the other."

The Spaniard was nevertheless seen on television cameras, attempting to slap Andy Liddell, and referee Neale Barry confirmed that he had not seen that incident clearly.

The FA therefore took action, with Arsenal confirming they will request a hearing on Thursday to contest the charge.

Arsenal have also launched an appeal for wrongful dismissal for Bergkamp after his red card for raising his hands towards Cullip's throat and that hearing is scheduled to take place today.

Meanwhile, Wenger claimed Arsenal were not being given enough credit as he challenged his side to cut through the "doom and gloom" by showing their European credentials.

The Gunners face Bayern Munich in their Champions League last-16 first-leg tie tonight, with the potential to revive their season or see their fortunes take another knock.

Injuries and illness have not helped - Sol Campbell's ongoing absence with a twisted ankle is keenly felt and Cole is still doubtful for tonight's tie after a virus.

No wonder Wenger was attempting to lift morale as he proclaimed Arsenal to be one of the biggest attractions in Europe.

"We are used to watching Champions League games at Bayern Munich with half of the stadium empty, but this game is a sell-out," he said.

"People are not fooled. When teams play against Arsenal, the fans come. That means people expect something from Arsenal in the quality of our game.